Lescott the next headache as defender faces losing City place to Nastasic

England manager Roy Hodgson is set to face another defensive crisis with Joleon Lescott in danger of losing his place at Manchester City.

Hodgson is coming to terms with the retirement of John Terry, and to make things worse it is understood City boss Roberto Mancini plans to gradually integrate new signing Matija Nastasic to replace Lescott.

Along with Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill, Lescott is one of only three experienced central defenders available to Hodgson unless he decides to recall Rio Ferdinand.

Under threat: Joleon Lescott (centre) could lose his place at Manchester City

Lescott started the recent qualifiers against Ukraine and Moldova, but Mancini has misgivings about his ability on the ball and gave Serbia centre back Nastasic his debut in last week’s Champions League defeat at Real Madrid.

City have made no move to open contract talks with Lescott, even though he has just two years left on his deal and was ready to discuss a new one. The same, incidentally, applies to Gareth Barry and James Milner. But Lescott has vowed not to complain.

Favoured: Matija Nastasic (left) has been brought in by Roberto Mancini

He said last night: ‘Obviously it hurt not to play in Madrid, but you have to respect the manager’s decision. Matija has looked strong. I just have to work hard. Going knocking on managers’ doors isn’t really my style. I don’t think my mum would be very happy. A few years ago I was playing away at Plymouth on Tuesday nights. Now Tuesday nights mean Champions League. I’m grateful for what I have. So I won’t be rocking the boat.’